On July 26, Buttercup was released from the oxygen chamber and her breathing is normal. She went to a cardiologist who said her heart seemed okay for now, but she still has a big clump of worms in a section of her heart. The cardiologist believes she had a blood clot due to complications from her heartworm treatment. Last night, Darren picked her up and brought her home to her sister Daisy and her foster brother Sausage. Her appetite is back and Buttercup is showing true resilience. She is already giving her “please pet me” face, sitting on Karen’s lap, and pawing at Karen’s arms for attention. Special thanks to Karen for being a wonderful caretaker. Buttercup will be on bed-rest for at least one month so Sausage and Daisy are keeping her company as she sleeps. Without the donations of our supporters, we may not have been able to treat Buttercup and her life could have been in jeopardy. The total vet bill is $2,227 and we already have raised over $1,200. We are so amazed at the outpouring from everyone coming together to save Buttercup's life. If you haven't had the opportunity to donate yet, it's not too late. Thank you again everyone.

In May, Daisy and Buttercup were out of time in Bladen County, North Carolina. These sweet girls were a bonded pair and both have heartworm. Instead of standing by, City Dogs Rescue paid $400 to save their lives. We decided to only charge $175 for both dogs in order to keep them together, but still no one wants these beautiful ladies. These girls have never given up despite all the bad luck they have been dealt in life. They were dropped off at the shelter because their owner got married.

After weeks of great progress, Buttercup has faced a setback and now we are asking you to help.

On July 27, 2012, Buttercup was brought to a 24-hour care place and is in oxygen after breathing very heavy. For one night with a 10% rescue discount, we owe $1700.

Buttercup is scheduled to see a cardiologist on July 28 which will cost $500 alone.

We think that her breathing problems are related to her heartworm treatment which she began on July 20. The worms may be dying and breaking up, potentially causing a clot. If this is the case, we hope it is temporary.

Remember Stubs? In addition to his awesome name, he's also just an awesome dog, as his new owner can attest.

Although he often sleeps with one eye open, he's happy as a clam in his new home. This happy guy has found plenty to add to his list of hobbies, including chasing things (such as squirrels, rats, flies, and birds), sleeping, standing on his hind legs, and pulling the stuffing out of his toys. He also loves other big dogs and humans, and is a fan of treats, popcorn, and ice cubes. His only dislike? Thunderstorms. (I'm sure many of us can relate!)

As quirky as he is cute, Stubs considers a meal incomplete if it doesn't contain cheese or eggs. He also prefers to stick to a regular feeding schedule and makes sure his family keeps to it. Stubs has learned to sit and give his paw on command. Handsome and smart? What a catch!

“I’m telling ya, I’d be Lucy and you’d be Ethel,” said Daisy.“So then, you’d be Laverne to my Shirley?” asked Buttercup.“Exactly. Just like you’d be the Betty to my Wilma,” said Daisy.Buttercup thought about this. “Yes, I think that sounds about right.”

“Hey, you know what we should do?” asked Daisy.

“Sit on our foster mother’s lap and get a nice scratch?” Buttercup asked stretching out her front paws and yawning. “Maybe cuddle and take a nap?”Daisy gave Buttercup a look. “No, silly, we should play with our toys. And then maybe, she’ll take us for a walk after we get a bite to eat.”

This gave Buttercup pause. “Hmmm. That does sound like a nice idea.” She looked at Daisy. “Come over here. You have a little schmutz on your face.”Daisy walked over to Buttercup who proceeded to groom her friend.“Whew, thanks. You saved me from having to take a bath,” Daisy said.Buttercup smiled and wagged her tail.

“Perhaps we should move this discussion outside,” Daisy said as her foster mother opened the door to the backyard. The two pals gentle trotted out to the green grass.Daisy went over to a bush with Buttercup trailing close behind. “You know Buttercup, this is where we are supposed to do our, ahem, business.”Buttercup looked down. “I know. I know. I’m working on it.”“Well, work a little harder my dear,” Daisy nudged Buttercup with her nose.

Buttercup smiled. “Hey, look it’s a bird!” In a flash, Buttercup was off to chase the birds in the yard. It’s simply her favorite way to spend her time outdoors. Daisy decided to wander over to one of her soft toys and nibble on it.The two girls enjoyed all the fresh air that the outdoors had to offer them before lying down to sunbathe on the porch.

“Hey Buttercup?”“Yes, Daisy.”“I’m really glad we’re friends. In fact, I think of you more like a sister,” Daisy said.Buttercup snuggled in close to Daisy. “I feel the same way.”

“Do you think we’ll get adopted?” Daisy asked. “Even though we have heart worm, we’re almost done with our medication and we should be just fine. And while we may be what they call ‘mature ladies’ we still got a whole lot of life in us.”“Yes, we do,” Buttercup said.“I heard the nice folks at City Dog Rescue say that we’re a package deal. I think that means we’ll get to stay together. Because I couldn’t imagine living without you.”“Me, neither,” Buttercup said. “You’re the peanut butter to my jelly.”Interested in adopting Daisy and Buttercup, the Chihuahua/Rat Terriers? An adoption fee of $175 covers both dogs and includes all vaccinations, spay/neuter procedure, microchip, and initial health check. Please note that City Dogs Rescue requires that you complete an application prior to visiting these two dogs. Adoption fee, home visit, and application required.

Non-profits thrive when the merchants in their cities support their efforts. City Dogs Rescue values the unwavering support they have received from Doug Schantz, owner of Nellie’s Sports Bar, located at 900 U Street, NW Washington, DC 20001.The sports and entertainment bar which serves up a “menu of small plates and big baskets” and hosts a variety activities such Texas Hold’Em Poker on Monday nights, Drag Bingo Tuesdays, Smart Ass! Trivia on Wednesdays and Ping Pong Madness every fourth Tuesday, has supported over 100 different non-profits since the day they opened five years ago.Doug originally heard about the dog rescue organization through his friend, Darren, a Director at City Dogs Rescue. “I thought that City Dogs Rescue was perfect as Nellie's ‘Pet’ Project.”Nellie’s has supported the group since the beginning by having adoption events on site and sponsoring them in the Capital Pride Parade and at the retail booth. In addition to being a sponsor, Nellie's has hosted fundraising events and made extra donations.

In regards to Pride Doug said, “It was essential to highlight them at both events that are so well attended. It's the right thing to do and part of Nellie's and City Dogs being partners.”

City Dogs Rescue is thrilled with the partnership they have developed with the bar. “Nellie's has been an amazing sponsor for us. They were our first "Gold Level" sponsor and reached out to us immediately when we started (when we needed support the most),” said Darren.

“We have had many events at Nellie's and the staff have always gone out of their way to help us. Doug has also been open to new and creative ideas as to how best to partner with us - - from allowing us to have events during Drag Bingo, SmartAss Trivia! and Saturday Brunch, and also serving a "Greyhound" drink in our honor (where we received a portion of the drink sales). I think it is safe to say that not too many dog rescues have had dog adoption events at Drag Bingo. Nellie's helps to keep us fun and interesting, and we really value their support and enthusiasm.”At least two adoptions have occurred because the person found out about the organization through Nellie's email blast, roof deck banner or monthly events. We know that happy alumni Tilghman (formerly Alex) and Stubbs were adopted with the help of Nellie's!

“Nellie's patrons seem to really enjoy getting to meet and spend time with the dogs when we come. I think the dogs help to create a really positive vibe. Like Nellie's itself, Nellie's customers have been very generous in terms of making donations to us and purchasing City Dogs Rescue merchandise. We have also signed-up many volunteers from these events,” Darren said. "We were also thrilled to march with Nellie's in DC Pride this year.”The neighborhood bar also puts out Nellie Water Bowls daily at both the U Street and 9th Street doors.As for his own furry friends, Doug has a cat named Cupcake that was saved from an animal hospital in Delaware. “No City Dog yet, but they are working on me.”The future looks bright for the partnership between Nellie’s and City Dogs Rescue if Doug has anything to say about it. “I’m looking forward to 100 adoptions by the end of 2012!”

by A.J., volunteer bloggerDo you love dogs? Do you also need to eat? Then we have the perfect event to share with you today. City Dogs Rescue has partnered with EatWell DC for a Summer Dine-Out night on Monday, August 13. As part of this event, fifteen percent of your dining dollars will go to City Dogs Rescue when you dine at an EatWell restaurant (The Pig, Logan Tavern, Grillfish, Commissary, and The Heights) that night.

However, you can do more than just chow down that day... we also need volunteers! There are lots of ways to help - you can assist with event planning or help out at one of the restaurants on the day of the event. You can encourage your friends to make reservations, and you can also volunteer as a host (which means that you bring five friends to eat). If you're interested in helping out, email meredith@citydogsrescuedc.org.Remember... save the date! We hope to see you on Monday, August 13.

We would also like to thank our dedicated volunteers: Al, April, Alex, Laura, and Jon! Danielle, Alissa, and Nick did a great job of event planning as well that ensured a good time was had by all!

And thank you for joining us at this fun event to raise money to save dogs on death row and dogs in dire need like Bandit! After months of countless health obstacles for our dogs, this fundraiser will really help us out and continue our mission!

We are trying to help our friends in Essex County, VA in rescuing 3 new dogs. We need 3 foster parents for our new furry friends. We are looking for a minimum commitment of 2 weeks. Please contact Alissa with questions at: foster@citydogsrescuedc.org or apply today.

With the help of our foster parents, we are able to save more dogs from overcrowded, high-kill shelters.

Cosmo

Hey there! I'm a 5 year old Beagle mix. I am potty trained and get along well with dogs. I am excited to be rescued from this overcrowded shelter and ready for my new foster home. Do you have space for me?

Dixie

I am young petite hound mix. Even though my picture doesn't do me justice, I would do really well in an apartment, I'm only 35lbs! I am ready for my new life and hope you can find room in your heart and home for someone small like me!

Bandit

Hi! My name is Bandit. I am a 1 year lab mix, looking for a loving foster home. I am ready to make new friends (2-legged and 4-legged). I am eager to please and hope that you will be my new friend!

Day in and day out, there are stories of abuse, neglect and pleas to save a life. Amidst those anguished postings there is magic happening which often goes unnoticed.Magic like the rescue of a death row dog named Bandit.Not long ago, Bandit was a sad, frightened dog at an over-crowded animal control facility in North Carolina.When it was time for the dreaded "day" at the overcrowded facility, there was a rescue organization who happened to be waiting in the wings - one with both the room and resources necessary to save Bandit from certain death.View slideshow: BanditBandit, along with his brother, Bear, were saved with the help of A Shelter Friend and City Dogs Rescue.The rescue agency was warned that Bandit was anti-social and were prepared to give him time to come around. After the quiet dog's first trip to the veterinarian, it was apparent why he was anti-social and despondent - he was in pain.Video: Saving BanditDuring his weeks at the animal control facility in North Carolina, Bandit had been suffering with the pain of a broken leg. Nobody there knew, but it explained a lot about Bandit's sour mood.Emergency surgery was needed to repair the long-neglected injury...surgery that was going to be expensive.With the help of shelter volunteers and the rescue community, as well assistance from A Shelter Friend, the surgery funds were raised and Bandit was on the road to recovery.Soon, Bandit was well enough to make a trek to Washington, D.C., where he was paired up with a patient foster home. There, he began to heal his wounded leg as well as his wounded heart.As soon as Bandit realized that he was safe, loved and finally, wanted, his true personality blossomed.Eventually, as the scars of his past faded, Bandit found a new family.City Dogs Rescue shared the following heartwarming update:Bandit has been renamed Kai which means strong, unbreakable, triumphant, love, ocean, and dog in several different languages. As the dog who never gave up, Kai is the perfect name.Everyday, dogs like Bandit are rescued. Unfortunately, everyday, dogs just like Bandit are also killed.Through the support of rescue agencies, who rely upon volunteers, foster homes, and donations, dogs like Bandit get the chance to live out happy, full lives enjoying the one thing that they long for more than anything else - being loved.If you would like to continue receiving the latest dog related news, tips and advice, please click the"Subscribe" icon which is located at the bottom of this column. It is free and anonymous to sign up.Follow the National Dog News Examiner on Facebook and Twitter!I am human, if you see a typo, please let me know. Questions, comments or story ideas can be emailed to Eims1@live.com.